Choosing an Internal Frame Backpack: A Few Points to Consider

It’s easy to shop for an internal frame backpack online, but the prices vary by hundreds of dollars and you may be wondering what causes those differences. The pack that you should choose largely depends on what you plan to use if for.



You’re probably thinking “backpacking, of course.” What else? Well, the length of time that you plan to spend on the trail is a major consideration. If this is an overnight trip into the backcountry, you will need a pack with a sleeping bag compartment.

Otherwise, you will have to tie or attach the sleeping bag in another way. This can easily become awkward, especially on small trails or when bushwhacking is necessary. A special sleeping bag compartment will increase the cost of an internal frame backpack, but it may be well worth it. For short trips, hunting or day hikes, you don’t need the most expensive packs. Even an inexpensive Field-line may do. What you want to compare is the carrying capacity, the size and the weight.

If you are planning a long hike, you should always weigh your equipment before you set out. Think about how to reduce the weight. What items is it possible to do without? You want to pack the essentials, but if you get on the trail with a 50 pound pack you will soon see the problems that causes. The weight of the pack should be relatively light. Weights vary from two to eight pounds, empty. If you were going for a 20 pound total weight, an 8 pound bag would only allow you to carry 12 pounds of gear. Choose the lightest weight bag that will allow you to carry your necessary gear. Any internal frame backpack should have padded shoulder straps and be easily adjustable. The center frame should be made of lightweight aluminum to keep the weight down. Some hikers feel that aluminum is not as strong as other heavier metals, but most these days are very durable. Internal hydration pockets are a nice component. They allow you to carry enough water, without having the extra weight of bottles or worrying about disposing of the trash. They are available on packs of all prices.

Zipper construction and the material used to make the pack are other things that can add to the price. But, above all else, the internal frame backpack that you choose should be comfortable to carry and appropriate for the length of time that you plan to spend on the trail.